The Development and Assessment of an Online Microscopic Anatomy Course

Histology is the study of microscopic anatomy which traditionally uses glass slides and microscopes to view the various structures. Virtual microscopy uses digitized microscope slides and essentially converts the computer screen into a microscope field of view. Virtual microscopy is now well established and is being integrated into histology courses with great success across the country. The popularity of Distance Studies continues to increase at our campus and at campuses across the country. Software such as the Wimba Classroom (Blackboard, NY) allows the high quality synchronous delivery of course material and communication with students. The combination of virtual microscopy along with Wimba allows a senior level laboratory course in histology to be offered via distance education. This type of course would have been previously restricted to those students who could physically attend a microscope lab. Our challenge lies in ensuring that the quality of the Distance Education course is equivalent to that of the face to face course traditionally offered by our department. This study will evaluate the outcomes of ACB 3309 which is offered concurrently as face to face and distance formats. Student outcomes measured will include overall grades, laboratory assignments, quizzes, and practical and written exams. In addition, approximately 4 months after the completion of the course, students will be re-tested to determine the degree to which knowledge has been retained. Information collected from this study should support our hypothesis that student outcomes from Distance Education are equivalent to or better than those of students in face to face classrooms.